Types of Siding: Pros and Cons

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New siding is one of the best ways to give your home a facelift and add value, but which type is right for you? Before you hire a siding contractor, get familiar with some of the differences between types of siding, and the pros and cons of each.

Vinyl Siding

Pros: A wide range of textures that mimic shake or shingle styles make vinyl siding a common choice. It can be installed over wood, with vertical and horizontal panels available. It’s also moderately priced and requires very little maintenance. Because it comes in solid, pre-finished colors, it will never need repainting. Some of the newest types even offer a layer of polystyrene that adds insulation to your home.

Cons: Proper installation is very important, because it can warp if it’s not done right. You’ll also have a lot of noticeable seams, because the standard 12-foot-long panels will need to be overlapped. There are longer panels on the market but they cost about 30 percent more.

Fiber Cement Siding

Pros: This is the newest type of siding on the market. It does a great job of simulating wood grain and it’s very durable, able to withstand cold winds and climates. Made from recyclable materials, cement fiber siding is installed and can be cut like wood siding. Style choices include shingle or shake, stucco and beveled, as well as trim pieces that let you use it for design features. You can also choose from pre-finished surfaces or primed.

Cons: Depending upon your choice of the style, the cost can be high. It’s also very heavy, and requires special tools and methods, which can make it a very challenging DIY project.

Wood Siding

Pros: Much of the charm of historical homes’ exterior comes from their detailed wood siding, and it’s still a popular choice for new homes. A broad range of textures, finishes and styles are available, as well as horizontal (clapboard or beveled) and vertical (board or plank) options.

Cons: It can be a challenge to install wood siding over existing siding, and it’s well-known that damage from insects or rot are a possibility. Splitting and warping can be problems as well, and you’ll need to maintain its finish with paint or stain.

Aluminum Siding

Pros: Aluminum siding is a very low-maintenance material and is frequently used in new homes. Buyers have their choice of several pre-finished colors, plus various styles of vertical and horizontal panels. It’s known for its durability, and the newer option of vinyl-coated aluminum siding overcome the paint issues that older aluminum siding can have.

Cons: Although it’s durable, sometimes the pre-finished paint can fade or can run down on to brick wall sections that may be below the aluminum siding. It’s noisy, too, and can be relatively easily dented by high impacts. Plastic- or vinyl-coated types can be costly.

Stucco Siding

Pros: Low-maintenance, highly durable stucco is resistant to pests and fire. Its colors are solid throughout, so repainting isn’t needed. If it’s well-maintained, stucco can last as long as your house does. It coordinates nicely with other types of siding, so it can be used for a wide range of architectural features and details.

Cons: With extensive prep work necessary, installing stucco is definitely not a DIY job, and not just any contractor can be trusted to do the job right. You’ll need to spend time finding a reliable siding contractor with solid stucco installation experience.

Leave your siding project to the Contractor Connection pros.

Your siding’s good looks and durability depend on expert installation, and that depends on your choice of siding contractor. Make your decision simple with Contractor Connection’s network of experts. The siding contractor we match you with will have already been thoroughly vetted and qualified to do the job.

Ready to get a free estimate from a siding contractor you can trust? Just enter your ZIP code at the top of the page.

Siding Contractor Hiring Guide

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Considering the impact that new siding will have on your home’s appearance, your choice of siding contractor may be the most important step of your project. It takes time to determine which siding professional has the skill and experience to install the particular type of siding you want, but it’s worth it to know that your job will be done right.

Here are tips to help you hire a siding contractor for your project:

Research your siding material choice

Before calling any siding contractors, do your homework on the type of siding you have in mind. Not all installers work with all kinds of siding materials, so you’ll want to focus your contractor search on those who specialize in the siding you want. Get an idea of the price range for materials and labor so that you’ll be able to confidently compare estimates and the scope of work.

Check the laws

Your local government’s building authority can tell you what permitting requirements are, as well as whether a licensed professional is required. In addition, there may be limits to the type of siding you can use. If your home is in a community with a homeowner’s association, checking its rules for siding is a must.

Interview siding contractors

You’ll want to work with a contractor who puts you at ease, but there’s much more to consider. Ask potential contractors these questions:

  • What is your experience in installing the type of siding I want? Make sure the contractor has many years of experience with the material and installation method.
  • Can you provide proof of insurance? Don’t simply take the contractor’s word on this: Get insurance information, then call the contractor’s insurance company to confirm that the policy is in good standing. Also make sure that subcontractors are insured in case they’re injured while working on your project.
  • Can you provide customer references? Get names and address for customers who will allow you to come see the contractor’s work for yourself. If possible, ask the customers if they would choose to work with that contractor again.
  • Do you offer a warranty or satisfaction guarantee? Top-quality siding contractors are more than willing to stand behind their work. Make sure your contract clearly spells out what recourse you have if you’re not satisfied with the job.

Scrutinize estimates and contracts

Carefully review all estimates for what they do and do not include, such as removal of existing siding and debris. Check the scope of work in each estimate and make sure it’s broken out in detail. You’ll want to know all you can about the price of material, labor, taxes and any associated fees. Be sure you’re clear on what kind of deposit is needed for work to start and what the subsequent payment schedule is. If you’re at all uncomfortable with language in a contract, go to the trouble of having an attorney review it — the cost of that could save you thousands down the road.

Check the contractor’s reputation

In addition to the questions above, find out how long the contractor has been in business, and whether any complaints have been lodged against him or her with the Better Business Bureau. You can also check with the consumer protection agency in your state.

Save time and hassle — find your siding contractor with Contractor Connection.

We’ve taken the headaches out of finding a siding contractor you can trust. The contractors in our network meet the most stringent standards in the industry, and they are verified to have proper licensing, proper insurance and financial stability. Get a free, no-obligation estimate for your project — simply enter your ZIP code at the top of the page to get started.

Tips For Maintaining Your New Siding

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Protect the investment you’ve made in your brand-new siding by performing regular maintenance. Proper care will extend the life of your siding and keep it looking new. Regular maintenance is also key to ensuring that your siding is performing well at insulating your home and keeping moisture out.

Following are some helpful tips on how to keep your siding in good condition.

Do regular inspections

Periodically inspect your siding, particularly where it meets doors, windows and the roof. Check for gaps or dents, and take a close look at areas that may be prone to damage from trees or long hours of direct sun.

If you’re in a cold climate, inspect siding under your eaves for stains from water, which may be an indication of ice damming. You may be able to prevent this condition by sealing gaps around your ducts or pipes in the attic and putting in additional insulation.

In general, staying on top of minor problems can usually be done inexpensively. A few dollars’ worth of caulk, for instance, can potentially save thousands of dollars in extensive structural work down the road. Additional maintenance tasks should be done for specific types of siding.

Cleaning your siding

A simple rinse with a hose can keep your siding free from debris and tree sap. Take care not to spray water at an angle that lets it get underneath the panels. Use a brush to get rid of stubborn stains. If you’re thinking of pressure washing, remember that some types of siding can be damaged by high-pressure spray. It’s best to hire a professional siding contractor if pressure washing is called for.

Tips for specific types of siding

  • Vinyl siding is known for its low maintenance needs, but you will want to periodically check it for cracks. Sections of your siding may need to be replaced or repaired by a siding contractor.
  • Aluminum siding is also a low-maintenance material, but it can have a few problems, such as dents. The remedy for dents is usually replacement of the entire panel. Depending upon the extent and location of the damage, repairing dents is probably a job best left to the pros.
  • Fiber cement can take nearly anything, but if it’s damaged by a big impact, you’ll want to call the siding contractor who installed it. For minor problems, you may be able to do a temporary fix with fiber cement patch material.
  • Wood siding has varying levels of maintenance needs depending upon whether it’s painted or stained. Stained finishes are generally easier to take care of while painted siding may have problems if your home isn’t well-ventilated. In either case, it’s critical to ensure that the wood remains protected by its finish from decay and rot that excessive moisture can cause. Even redwood and cedar — known for their resistance to rot problems — can be susceptible if exposed to the elements.  You should clean your wood siding about once a year with a brush and soapy water. If you encounter spots of mildew, use a gentle bleach solution, then rinse thoroughly. Check where your wood siding comes into contact with corner molding, doors and windows to ensure the caulk hasn’t cracked or shrunk and left gaps.

Need to replace your siding? Call on Contractor Connection.

Every siding contractor in our network meets the tough requirements of the insurance industry and has been verified to have the qualifications to do your project right. Simply enter your ZIP code at the top of the page for a free estimate from a top-quality contractor in your area.

Tips for New Room Additions

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Building a room addition is usually a large investment of both money and time. Before you hire a room addition contractor or start your own DIY room addition project, consider the following tips for planning your new room.

Assess your options

Before committing to a room addition project, consider whether reconfiguring your current space makes more sense. Think about spaces you already have, such as a basement or attic, that could be finished to meet your needs for more room. Perhaps you have a room that’s very rarely used, such as a formal living or dining room, or a guest bedroom that could be repurposed on a modest budget.

Rather than add an entirely new room, such as a kitchen or master suite, you may be able to remove interior walls to incorporate adjacent spaces that aren’t often used. Even with the potential need for patching some areas of ceilings and flooring, and building new support to replace load-bearing walls, the costs would be much lower than the price of a room addition.

In any case, assess the existing footprint of your home to determine if there are better ways to utilize the space you have.

Prioritize your needs

Once you’ve decided that a room addition is the best solution for you, determine what you need from your new room. Think about what your existing space may be lacking and how your new room can provide it. Be mindful of how you use your existing rooms now and identify any problems. If you’re building a new kitchen addition, for example, you’ll want it to have a flow that matches the way you really prepare ingredients, cook and clean. For a new bathroom, consider how many family members use it and what’s most important to each of them. Starting with a clear view of what you need is a way to help ensure you end with a room addition you’ll love.

Determine who will do the work

Unless you are very skilled in construction work, a room addition is not a DIY project. There are some homeowners who decide to act as their own general contractor and supervise the work of subcontractors. Being your own contractor still requires some knowledge of materials and construction, however, plus the time and ability to find and vet all of the necessary subcontractors.

The best option for most homeowners is to hire a room addition contractor. While that will add costs to your project, your contractor will earn his or her fees by managing every aspect of your project, from obtaining permits to your final punch list.

Interview room addition contractors

Hiring a contractor may be the most important factor in your project’s ultimate success. Not only should you get multiple bids, you should vet the qualifications of any contractor that you’re seriously considering. Verify that he or she has current insurance and licensing, is in good standing with trade or professional organizations, and has references from customers who have had similar work done. Also make sure that the bids you get include details on how long the project will take, how and when payments should be made, and specifics on what is and isn’t covered by a warranty. Finding the right contractor is a time-consuming process, but one that can’t be skipped.

Save time and hassle with Contractor Connection.

We’ve simplified the process of vetting room addition contractors because we’ve already done it for you. The contractor in our network of experts have proper licensing and insurance and are fully qualified to do your project right. Their work is backed by a five-year workmanship warranty and they meet tough insurance company requirements. Hire a contractor you can trust — simply enter your ZIP code at the top of the page to get started now.

Hidden Home Addition Costs to Know About Before You Start

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Some costs of a room addition are easy to identify: You know there will be fees for permits, the price of labor and material, and charges for change orders. But there are other expenses to factor in to the total cost of your new room. Here’s a list of the most common costs that may have an impact on your budget:

 

Homeowner’s insurance

Not only will your annual insurance premiums go up, but you’ll want them to. Adequate insurance on your home’s new space means peace of mind (and replacement funds) should there be an event that damages your addition.

 

Property taxes

It’s likely that you’ll pay higher property taxes on the additional space. The information for the tax assessor will come from the value that’s shown on the application for your initial building permit. Note that it’s not necessarily the additional square footage, but rather the assessed value of the new space. You’ll see the higher taxes in the valuation of your house for the next tax year.

 

Financing

If you’re paying for your new room with a loan, include the associated origination and processing fees, plus any interest you’ll be paying. You can, of course, reduce these costs by applying a larger downpayment. Make sure to factor in the true cost of interest over the full life of your loan.

 

Furnishings and decor

This category is easily overlooked, but your total budget should include the furniture, window coverings and decor that you’ll need in your room addition.

 

Landscaping

Depending upon the type of room you add and its location, you may also have costs to replace and/or remove trees, shrubs and grass. Construction work itself can be the cause of these costs, since it usually involves heavy machinery and a lot of foot traffic across your yard or around your house.

 

Disposal of waste and cleanup

Your budget will need to include the costs of the removal of construction debris and waste, as well as fees for a final cleanup of your property. Check bids from room addition contractors carefully for details on the contractor’s fees for managing debris removal, the extent of their responsibility for this, and how and by whom containers will be paid for. Reviewing the contract is also a good time to check on local ordinances that pertain to waste disposal.

 

Plan your room addition with the help of Contractor Connection.

With a five-year warranty on workmanship and top-quality room addition contractors who’ve already been vetted for the proper credentials and qualifications, Contractor Connection makes finding a trustworthy contractor easy. For your free, no-obligation estimate, simply enter your ZIP code at the top of the page and a room addition contractor will be in touch in just 24 hours.

Your New Room Addition Is Built — What’s Next?

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When your room addition contractor’s crews have left and you’re ready to move everything into your new living space, make sure the project is truly complete. Here are a few items to follow up on that will help ensure your room addition comes to a proper conclusion.

Do your own final inspection

Weeks after your construction project is finished and paid for in full is not the time to check to see if everything is in order. Take the time now to create a punch list of items that need the attention of your contractor. Make sure lighting and other electrical features are working, check all plumbing fixtures, closely inspect any trim work and walls, make sure windows open and close easily, and look for any minor damage to new materials (such as countertops) that may have occurred during construction.

Once your contractor has worked through the items on your list, have a final walk-through with him or her. Hold off on making your final payment until everything has been done to your satisfaction.

Check your contract

Particularly on a project that’s stretched over a couple of months or more, it’s easy to forget some of the finer details of your contract. Before you make your last payment to your contractor, read your contract to verify that everything that was promised has been delivered. Make sure change orders were accurately billed according to the terms of your contract as well.

Organize documents

The paperwork involved in a construction project may seem overwhelming, but keeping it organized and on file is important for several reasons. If conflicts arise, project documents may be the key to sorting them out; without them, you may not have anything to support your claims. Among the documents you should retain are all bills you’ve received and a record of all payments you’ve made; drawing and plans; manuals for any new equipment, systems or appliances; care instructions for new materials in your addition, such as flooring; and the names of subcontractors who worked on your job.

Review any warranties

In addition to the warranties that may come with appliances or other new products, make sure you have documentation on any warranties that your room addition contractor offered or specified in your original contract. Also review the contractor’s warranty to ensure that its conditions have been met and that nothing’s been done that would void the warranty’s terms.

Plan on peace of mind with Contractor Connection.

Hiring a contractor through our matching service means peace of mind — you’re protected by a five-year workmanship warranty from contractors who meet stringent insurance company requirements for quality. If you’re still in the planning stages of your new room addition, you can count on Contractor Connection to match you with an experienced, qualified room addition contractor. Get started by entering your ZIP code at the top of the page.

Time For A New Roof? Here’s What You Need to Know

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A new roof is an important and costly purchase. Not only does it have a large impact on your home’s appearance — it’s also one of the most critical factors in the integrity of your home’s structure. Before you begin calling roofing contractors, get up to speed on roofing costs, materials and installation.

Roofing cost considerations

A number of variables can affect the final cost of your new roof. Do you have chimneys, dormers, skylights or other features that interrupt the planes of your roof? What is the shape of your roof? The greater the number of elements that roofers will need to work around and the number of separate sections, the higher the cost. Another factor is the existing conditions your roofing contractor encounters at the start of the job — if the structure beneath or abutting the roof needs repair or if a great deal of old materials need to be removed, your labor costs will be higher.

Note that when roofing contractors measure and estimate the cost of your roof, their unit of measurement may be a “square.” Rather than actual square feet, a square in roofing terminology equals 100 square feet of area, or a 10′ by 10′ square. Be sure you understand the measurements used in the estimates that potential contractors provide.

Roofing materials

Following are the five most common materials used for roofing today. Before you make your final material choice, however, consult a trusted roofing contractor to ensure that the material you want is right for your home. As a rule, the roof you have now will be the determining factor, as will how well your home’s structure can handle certain loads.

Slate: Slate is extremely durable and beautiful, but expensive. Shipped from quarries in the northeastern U.S., it can start at approximately $800 per square (100 square feet). To ensure a slate roof is properly installed, verify that your roofing contractor has the skills, tools and experience to work with slate.

Tile: The distinctive roofing that defines Mission and Spanish architectural styles, the half cylinders of tile are expensive, very durable, and often quite heavy.If you’re changing  your current roof from some other type of roofing to tile, confirm with a reputable roofing contractor that your home’s structure can support the weight.

Asphalt shingles: Being the least costly overall and the easiest to install, asphalt shingles are the most common roofing material. It comes reinforced with either fiberglass or organic materials, which doesn’t have much of an impact on the shingles’ appearance. Depending upon the type used, you can expect an asphalt roof to last approximately 25 years (or more in mild climates). Entry-level prices are around $50 per square.

Metal: Beginning at approximately $250 per square, metal roofing is expensive. Some metal roofing, such as copper-asphalt, comes in shingles, but most types — including copper, steel and aluminum — come in panels which are soldered together. Metal roofing is lightweight compared to other materials and stands up well to harsh weather.

Installation

Roofing is not a do-it-yourself project. Qualified roofing contractors know how to work safely and efficiently, and their licensing and insurance protect you and your property. It’s possible that you could cause damage to both your roof and your home if you don’t know proper roofing techniques and the risk of injury is simply too great.

Rely on Contractor Connection’s professional roofing contractors.

For safe, high-quality roofing installation, call on our network of expert roofing contractors. Each one has been thoroughly vetted for credentials and qualifications, and they meet stringent insurance company standards. For your free, no-obligation estimate, simply enter your ZIP code at the top of the page to get started.

How To Choose A Qualified Roofing Contractor

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Before you make the significant investment in a new roof, know what to look for in a roofing contractor. There’s more to quality roofing than meets the eye, so don’t let low prices or advertising be the deciding factors when you’re ready to hire.

Find a well-qualified roofing contractor with these guidelines:

  • Check references. Great contractors want you to see the work they’ve done, so the contractors you’re talking to shouldn’t hesitate to give you the names and addresses of past customers, particularly those who have the same type of roof you’re considering. Ask them if they would work with the roofing contractor again in the future.
  • Get proof of insurance. You should insist that the roofing contractors who make your short list provide you with copies of workers’ compensation certificates and liability coverage. (The former covers the roofer’s employees while on your property, while the latter covers your property itself.) Confirm that the coverage is in effect and will be throughout the duration of your project. Working with uninsured contractors is too great a risk — it could leave you involved in legal action and/or liable for injuries that occur on your property.
  • Verify proper licensing or bonding. Requirements for licensing can vary from state to state, with some having very specific rules. To get this information, check with your state’s licensing board or Department of Professional Regulation to make sure licenses are in effect and up to date.
  • Ask about relationships with manufacturers. Some types of roofing require specialized installation expertise to ensure their durability. Many manufacturers license or approve contractors who are qualified to install their products, so ask potential roofing contractors for this information.
  • Research reputations and associations. First, verify that the contractor has a physical and permanent place of business (and not just a Post Office box). Also check for a working phone number, tax ID number and a business license. Find out if the contractor belongs to national or area industry associations, which can be an indicator of professionalism, and check for complaints that may be on file with your area Better Business Bureau.
  • Understand the warranty. If there is anything you don’t understand about the language in a contractor’s warranty, ask about it. Pay particular attention to descriptions of events or circumstances that would void the warranty.
  • Scrutinize your estimate. An unwritten estimate — or one that simply gives you the total for labor and total for materials — is unacceptable. Get as detailed an estimate as possible with specifics on associated costs such as removing your existing roof, hauling away old materials and debris, and labor and materials on replacing any soft or rotten roof decking.
  • Ask about safety. Reputable roofing contractors never compromise on safety. Ask potential contractors about their safety training programs for their employees and what measures are taken on the job.
  • Go over the details. To help prevent surprises, also ask the contractors you’re interviewing what they’ll do to protect your property (such as landscaping or gutters). Find out how refuse material is handled and whether a container will be on the site, and note that the contractor should not require you to supply it. Ask what will happen if bad weather occurs in the middle of your project and how they will cover your roof-in-progress. Lastly, make sure there will be a project manager available on site who can answer your questions or respond to any concerns you may have.

Don’t have time to vet roofing contractors?
Contractor Connection has done it for you.

Our matching service saves you from spending time researching and talking to multiple roofing contractors. We’ve already vetted every contractor in our network of experts and match you to the one who’s best for your project. Our contractors meet tough insurance company requirements, and back their work with a five-year warranty on workmanship that’s the best in the industry. Ready to start your project? Simply enter your ZIP code at the top of the page to begin.

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Keep Up on Your Roof Cleaning & Maintenance

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Although a brand-new, properly installed roof is designed to last for decades, you can help make sure that yours does just that with regular inspections. Knowing which factors affect the performance of your roof and which minor maintenance tasks you can do yourself will go a long way toward keeping your new roof in great condition.

Environmental Enemies for Your Roof

Your roof is exposed to everything that nature has to throw at it, but if you know what to look for, you can avoid trouble. Here are just a few environmental factors that can have an effect:

Sunlight: UV light and high temperatures can cause deterioration, particularly on southern- or western-facing sections of your roof.

Trees and leaves: If a falling branch is heavy enough, it can puncture your roof shingles. Leaves left to accumulate on any surfaces hold in moisture, which can lead to rot. And branches that are in contact with your roof can scratch it when the wind’s blowing.

Moisture: Attic spaces that don’t have adequate ventilation can lead to a build-up of condensation or moisture, which facilitates wood decay.

Rain: When rain gets underneath roofing materials, it can travel to the roof deck and lead to rot.

Ice or snow: Ice dams can occur when snow has melted and refrozen; when this happens at your roof’s overhang, drainage can be compromised. Melting snow or ice can become backed up beneath shakes or shingles, then make its way to places it shouldn’t be.

Algae or moss: Again, moisture is the culprit, creating conditions that encourage the growth of moss and algae.

Roof Maintenance Tips

In addition to regularly checking for damage from the environment, keep these tips in mind:

Do-it-yourself cosmetic fixes are rarely a good idea. Worn-looking shingles means it’s time to call a professional instead of being tempted to paint your roof. With a new roof, you shouldn’t see any wear for a long time. If you do, it may be a sign that work may need to be redone in some areas, so call your roofing contractor.

Avoid walking on your roof. High temperatures can soften shingles and cold weather can make them brittle, so if you must get on the roof, wait until more temperate times of day in extreme temperature conditions.

If algae appears, don’t use bleach to get rid of it. Not only is it corrosive, but you don’t want chlorine bleach to run into your groundwater. It’s better to attack the cause of the problem, such as cutting back branches or vines to let in more sunlight.

Pressure washing is another task that’s best left to professionals. The powerful jets can knock off embedded granules in asphalt shingles and compromise the structural integrity of the shingles.

Keep your roof and gutters clear of debris. Proper gutter drainage and roof surfaces free of leaf or other debris build-up are one of the best ways to make your new roof give you plenty of trouble-free years.

Leave roof repairs to the Contractor Connection pros.

Protect the investment you’ve made in your new roof by calling on top-quality roofing contractors for repairs. Our network of contractors meet rigorous industry standards, and every contractor’s workmanship is backed by a five-year warranty. To be matched to one contractor that’s right for you, simply enter your ZIP code at the top of the page for a response within 24 hours.

Tips For Organizing Your Newly Remodeled Kitchen

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Congratulations — you’ve survived months of mess and made endless decisions, and now you’re the proud owner of a new kitchen! It’s time to finish the job right by setting up your kitchen to get the most out of its features and make your life easier. The following tips tell you how:

Evaluate the way you cook.

Match your kitchen setup with your lifestyle for maximum efficiency. If you like nothing better than spending your entire Sunday making everything from scratch for a big meal, keep your largest countertop surfaces free of clutter. Plenty of room for rolling out dough, multiple cutting boards and large bowls mean you never have to rearrange your work surface before diving in.

Do you only go all-out on cooking occasionally? Identify the tasks you do complete in your kitchen every day, and arrange things to make those tasks easy.

Rehearse your process.

Before you put things away in your new kitchen, take a few minutes to stand in the spots where you’ll be doing your prep work, where you’ll be cooking and where you’ll be cleaning up. Group items according to where they’ll be needed most often, then work outward from there so that less-used items are out of your way. Everything should fit into one of three categories: daily, occasional or infrequent use.

Think in terms of “stations.”

Designate centers or stations according to activity, a tactic that restaurants depends on for efficiency. Are you a frequent baker? Then you’ll want rolling pins, measuring cups and mixing bowls in cabinets above or below your baking work area. Have coffee every day? Keep cups, sugar and containers of coffee within easy reach of your coffee maker.

Use your walls.

Wall space is often overlooked when outfitting a kitchen. Consider the options: keep knives handy on a magnetic wall rack, hang pegs or racks to keep commonly used utensils at hand, or add hooks for pot holders and dish towels. Utilizing wall space above your counters helps open up drawer space, too.

Double up.

If some items are used frequently for more than one activity, consider getting two so you can have one in each activity station. This doesn’t mean having two large items like food processors, but smaller items such as two large mixing bowls may make good sense.

Pare down.

There’s no better time than now to weed out things you really don’t use. Apply the “donate, keep or sell” criteria to every item before you stash it out of sight. Do you really need to hang on to that chipped coffee cup with the donut shop logo on it? Be realistic when putting everything away and your beautiful new kitchen will be easier to keep that way.

Plan ahead for organization with an experienced contractor.

Still in the planning stages of your new kitchen? A qualified contractor from Contractor Connection can help make sure your kitchen looks its best while performing beautifully. Our contractors’ workmanship is backed by a five-year warranty, and every one has been vetted for the proper licensing, experience and credentials. Start with a no-obligation estimate from a qualified contractor near you — simply enter your ZIP code at the top of the page.

How to Plan for Your Kitchen Remodel Design Project

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When it’s time to remodel your kitchen, just knowing where to begin may be your biggest challenge. Using this kitchen remodel checklist to help you plan out your kitchen remodel will help you before, during and after the project.

Here are 7 strategies for a Kitchen Remodel Design that works:

Allow plenty of time for planning.
The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends that you spend at least six months planning your kitchen renovation project, and with good reason — the more time you spend on planning, the more efficient every other phase of your project will be. You’ll be less likely to have cost overruns or expensive changes in design direction.

Start with how to use your current kitchen.
Is your refrigerator too small for your family or for the way you entertain? What does and doesn’t work about the traffic patterns in your existing kitchen? Taking an objective look at how you really use the kitchen you have is a great way to start prioritizing the features of the kitchen you want.

Think about ergonomics.
Having a kitchen that’s easier to use and that’s more accessible to everyone is moving higher on the list of desired kitchen features for many people. The good news is that it’s simple to achieve with your cabinet layout and appliance choices. Consider the advantages of a wall oven instead of a range, drawers in base cabinets instead of reach-ins, or even eliminating wall cabinets altogether if space allows. Even if the need for accessibility isn’t there right now, planning for the future is always smart, and usually money-saving.

Make decisions on the details early.
The sooner you can select all of your fixtures, tile, flooring and countertops, the more information your kitchen remodeling contractor will have to arrive at an accurate estimate. You’ll also avoid the delays that backordered items cause if you can order well before they’re to be installed.

Consider retaining the current footprint.
You will, of course, see cost savings by keeping electrical and plumbing lines where they are, but you’ll also make planning your new layout easier since you’ll already have the locations of important features set. Another benefit is reducing the costs (and the dust) of demolition.

Expect the unexpected.
Leave some room in your budget and your schedule for unforeseen events or obstacles. Being prepared to deal with surprises makes them much less likely to have big impacts on your money and time.

Make the entire process easier with the help of a pro.
Some parts of a kitchen remodeling project are right for experienced do-it-yourself types, but most of the job should be trusted to a professional kitchen renovation contractor. Qualified contractors add value from the earliest stages of planning and can help you keep your planning on the right track.

Need a qualified kitchen contractor? Contractor Connection can help.

The right contractor for your kitchen remodeling project is just a few clicks away. We’ve vetted our network of expert contractors to ensure that the one we match you with is fully qualified, and has the proper licensing and insurance. With the industry’s only five-year warranty on workmanship, you’ll have the peace of mind that working with a trusted contractor can bring. Just enter your ZIP code at the top of the page to get started.

Where Should You Splurge or Save on a Kitchen Remodel?

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To determine how your budget will be allocated, start with a clear idea of what matters most to you. If you have a large family, for instance, storage space may be at the top of your list. If you look forward to spending hours in the kitchen cooking up four-course gourmet meals, a professional six-burner range may be your starting point. Prioritizing what’s most important before you start your kitchen remodeling can help you (and your kitchen remodeling contractor) arrive at a plan that works for your wallet and for the way you really live.

Here is some guidance for deciding where you may want to spend more and where you’d rather keep costs low.

Top Kitchen Remodel Costs that Make or Break Your Budget

Kitchen Cabinets Cost

If you’ve already started researching cabinets, you know that the choices and price range is greater than ever before, and that your cabinets may be one your largest single remodeling expenses. On one end you’ll find RTA (ready-to-assemble) or stock cabinetry; on the other is cabinetry customized to every inch of your kitchen. Even within both of those categories, however, are features that can greatly affect the total cost. Rollout trays, lazy susans and extra-tall cabinets cost more, but if you don’t really need the extra space or convenience that all the extras provide, put your money elsewhere.

Places to splurge on cabinets are those that make your new kitchen more functional. One example is large drawers in lower cabinets, a trend that’s growing for good reason. Opening a drawer to access everyday dishes and cooking utensils is much more ergonomic than stooping to dig deep into cabinets or reaching to take a stack of heavy dinner plates from an overhead cabinet.

To save on your cabinet budget, look for mid-range choices that have upscale design features, such as full overlay doors. Affordable cabinetry is more well-built than ever and can offer a custom look without the high costs. Also take into consideration the cost of installation and delivery. When working with your kitchen renovation contractor, make sure to discuss those costs as well as the price of the cabinet boxes and doors themselves. Add in the sales tax and before you know it, you’ve gone well over budget.

And, speaking of installation, that’s a job that’s best left to professionals. Not only will an experienced kitchen remodeling contractor know how to properly install your cabinets — they’ll also be able to see potential issues before they become big, expensive problems.

Kitchen Tile Cost

Like cabinetry, hard-surface choices abound. Natural stone is beautiful, but porcelain tile is a great alternative for floors. It wears well, with resistance to cracks and chips, and higher-end porcelain can closely resemble natural stone. You can splurge a bit on your backsplash by using a few more expensive pieces, such as glass mosaics, interspersed among more affordable ceramic tile. For floors, larger tiles can help you save on cuts while it’s being installed and save on grouting labor.

Kitchen Hardware and Fixtures Costs

If the details are what really makes a kitchen to you, you can splurge on custom-designed cabinet knobs and pulls to give your kitchen a one-of-a-kind look. For your plumbing fixtures, you can save on the lower-priced options offered by the manufacturers known for high design — most all of them have simple but attractive choices for less. If you’d rather splurge here, the newest fixtures offer not only a great look, but also give you conveniences such as touchless operation and built-in filters.

Kitchen Countertops Cost

You can get beauty on a modest budget when shopping for countertop materials. At the lower end are laminates, which have come a long way over the last few years. By adding details such as bullnose edges or mitered corners, laminate counters can look more expensive. In the mid-range, butcher block, tile and solid surfacing can give you nearly any look you want without breaking the bank. If, however, you want your countertops to be your new kitchen’s show-stopper, stone can do the job. Marble, soapstone, granite and other natural materials can be very durable and, with proper care, continue to be the star in your kitchen for many years.

Kitchen Appliance Costs

Splurging on appliances may yield nothing more than good looks — stainless steel exteriors may be wildly popular, but stainless steel doesn’t have any function, and it can add hundreds to the cost of each kitchen appliance. Instead, you may want to focus on the features available to choose from. This is where prioritizing what matters to you is especially helpful. If speed of cooking is important to you, for example, an induction range may be worth the money (and cost of compatible cookware). If you entertain frequently, a double oven may make sense. Since kitchen appliances get so much use, take the time to research and plan for how you’ll use your appliance budget.

Get more tips for an affordable kitchen remodel.

Make your dream kitchen come true with Contractor Connection.

An experienced kitchen contractor can help you avoid the pitfalls of kitchen remodeling, and Contractor Connection can help you avoid unethical contractors. Our matching service (free to you) gives you access to a kitchen renovation contractor who’s already been verified to have the proper licensing and insurance, and a history of financial stability. Our five-year warranty on our contractors’ workmanship means that you’ll be satisfied with your new kitchen. Get started by entering your ZIP code at the top of the page and telling us about your kitchen project.

Home Remodeling & Renovation Ideas

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With real estate market conditions still sluggish in many areas of the country, homeowners who otherwise might sell their homes are choosing to invest in home remodeling instead. Home renovations offer the immediate benefit of having a more comfortable or functional home for yourself and your family, as well as the longer-term benefit of adding resale value.

If you’re just beginning to consider home remodeling, here are a few ideas for updating your home, plus estimates on what costs may be. Note, however, that prices and returns on investment can vary widely from city to city and neighborhood to neighborhood, so you’ll want to do your own research on your local area if recouping costs is important to you.

Top 4 Home Remodeling Ideas

Kitchen Remodeling

It’s no secret that kitchen renovations can have a major impact on the appearance, function and value of a home. As the center of so much activity, homeowners often opt to open up their kitchens by knocking down or relocating walls, or creating a pass-through. When changing a wall, it’s best to consult or hire a home renovation contractor who can assess whether the wall is load-bearing. Contractors also have access to skilled tradespeople who can handle everything that extensive kitchen renovations may involve, such as plumbing, electrical, tile, floors and drywall. The cost of reconfiguring a kitchen varies widely, from $1,000 or so to make a doorway wider to tens of thousands of dollars for extensive remodeling.

If you’re happy with your kitchen’s layout, you may choose to simply update what’s already there. These kitchen renovations can range from installing a new faucet and changing cabinet knobs to replacing appliances or cabinets. Again, the budget for this varies; you could take on a small project yourself or spend $50,000 on replacing nearly everything. On the less-expensive, do-it-yourself end are updates such as:

  • A new coat of paint
  • Updated or additional lighting
  • A new faucet
  • New cabinet knobs
  • New cabinet doors

One note of caution: Think twice before creating a kitchen that’s not appropriate for the size and style of your house. A kitchen with the highest-end finishes and equipment may feel out of place for your home and/or neighborhood, and you may not get much of a return on the investment.

Home remodeling contractors in your area will be familiar with what’s right for your area. Get tips on an affordable kitchen remodel.

Bathroom Remodeling

Updating a bathroom can be relatively affordable while packing a big punch. Changes that don’t involve plumbing, electrical or other costly changes but that can still make you feel like you have a new room include:

  • Regrouting tile
  • Changing the vanity
  • Upgrading fixtures such as lighting and towel bars
  • Replacing shower curtains and rods

At the next level, you will most likely want to hire a home renovation contractor. Relocating plumbing fixtures and lighting will require the services of professionals, as will moving walls or adding windows. While tiling can be done by many homeowners, a contractor is your best bet if your floor or walls are sizable.

Bathroom remodeling costs can range from a few dollars for decorative changes to $20,000 and up for extensive renovations. If you’re thinking about a bathroom addition, which is one change that should do well when it comes to recouping costs, a home remodeling contractor is the only way to go. Permits and licensing requirements are a factor, so call in a professional for this.

Ready to start a bathroom remodel? Get the tips you need to start planning.

Replacing Windows

The energy efficiency of homes is ranking higher on buyers’ lists. Even if you’re not planning to sell, you can lower your energy consumption by replacing old single-pane windows. It’s estimated by Energy Star that the right windows can save you up to $500 every year. In addition, many local utilities, municipalities and states offer rebates or other incentives. Some estimates show that the installation of energy-efficient windows will result in recouping 60 to 90 percent of your costs. A quick online search for energy-efficient window rebates will provide information on savings in your area.

Find out all you need to know about replacing windows.

Adding a Deck

A well-built deck can not only increase the value of your home; it can also increase its appeal to prospective buyers. Great outdoor living spaces are very desirable, and a deck can change the entire appearance and function of your yard. Estimates are that homeowners can recoup 65 to even 90 percent of their investment in a deck. As with all types of home improvements, costs to build a deck vary greatly. Apart from its size, additional features raise the price. More than one set of steps leading to the deck, built-in seating and, of course, your choice of materials determines the final price.

A deck project can be DIY, but a professional home remodeling contractor will already have not only the experience to do the job well, but also the specific tools to do it right. Local building codes may also be a factor when adding or remodeling a deck, so make sure your project is up to required standards.

If you already have a deck but it’s seen better days, careful pressure washing and re-staining can help restore its good looks.

Make your outdoor living space enjoyable with these ideas.

Take the worry out of home remodeling with Contractor Connection.

With an industry-best 3-year workmanship warranty and home remodeling contractors who are trusted by the insurance companies we work with, using our contractor matching service helps ensure you’ll be satisfied. Call on our network of experts for your next home renovation project. Just enter your ZIP code at the top of the page to get started!

Tips For Planning Your Home Remodeling Project

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Planning for your home remodeling project may be the task that’s most important to an outcome you’ll be pleased with. Working without a plan is likely to result in spending much more time and money that you expected, and ending up with a space that doesn’t align with your initial vision. Experienced DIYers and professional home remodeling contractors have at least one thing in common: They don’t lift a hammer without a well thought-out plan in place.

 

Regardless of the type of project you have in mind, the following tips will help ensure that you make the most of your remodeling dollars.

 

Plan the demolition

Home improvement shows tend to make demolition look like fun, but haphazardly knocking down walls and tearing out fixtures can cost you. Take time to plan this phase of the project to be sure that your demolition goes only as far as it needs to and that you don’t lose something that could have been reused. Determine what’s behind any walls you plan to take down, such as plumbing and electrical lines and conduit, and how their removal will affect your overall plan. Also make sure that every load-bearing wall in the house has been identified before anyone starts swinging a crowbar.

 

Stay true to your home’s style

It’s easy to fall for the latest design element or flashy material, but if it doesn’t complement or blend in with the style of your home’s structure and decor, you may be making a mistake by trying to include it in your plan. Try to find examples of how the materials or fixtures look in room settings similar to yours to help you decide what you really want.

 

Take inventory of your tools

Common, basic tools that most of us have on hand probably aren’t all you’ll need. If your project is complex enough to take a week’s time or more to complete, it’s a sign that your project should be handed over to a home renovation contractor who can either predict what kind of tools will be needed or have existing relationships with subcontractors who have the right tools. The expense of purchasing heavy-duty equipment for one-time use (and the time required to learn to use them safely and effectively) will likely not outweigh the advantages of hiring a qualified home remodeling contractor.

 

Have complete plumbing and electrical plans

You don’t want any surprises when it’s time to slide that new stove into place or install that new vanity, so a comprehensive plan for what’s behind the walls is essential. Again, if your home improvement or remodeling project is extensive enough to require changes in plumbing or electrical systems, get a licensed home remodeling contractor involved. There are almost certainly going to be local permitting, licensing and code requirements associated with these changes, and a contractor is the best person to handle them.

 

Review your homeowner’s insurance

Small projects probably won’t have much effect on your homeowner’s insurance, but larger remodeling work very well may. Your current insurance policy may have been written on the basis of the condition of your home when the policy was issued. Check with your insurance agent or company on whether you must hire a licensed professional contractor and how the changes to your home may highlight the need for changes to your policy.

 

Determine a budget

There are a number of factors involved here, from how long you plan to remain in your home to how you want to pay for renovations. If your goal is to sell relatively soon, for instance, you may not want to take on the debt of an extensive project, such as a completely new kitchen. Also consider the value of homes like yours in your neighborhood — going overboard on expensive features may add so much resale value to your home that you’ll price yourself out of the market. Regardless of how long you plan to stay in your home, a carefully prepared budget will help you determine how you want to pay for your project, guide you in your choice of materials and features, and help your general contractor prepare an accurate estimate of just what’s possible for the money you have.

 

Find ways to save

While many home remodeling contractors will not work with materials you’ve salvaged (because they can’t take responsibility for how well those materials will perform), there are still plenty of ways to save. These include checking with your contractor on new stock that might be left over from other projects; taking care of construction clean-up yourself; scheduling your contractor for less busy times of year when work may be more scarce; and keeping plumbing fixtures in the same place. This is just the beginning of how you can save money — it’s worth it to take several hours to search online for more ideas, since there may be tens of thousands of dollars at stake when all is said and done.

Not sure why to hire a general contractor? Here are 6 reasons to choose a Professional Home Improvement Contractor.

Go with a pro from Contractor Connection

The best time to involve a home renovation contractor in your project is in the planning phase, and the best way to find a qualified contractor is through Contractor Connection. We rigorously vet every contractor in our network, and they also meet the tough standards of the many insurance companies we work with. Our 5-year workmanship warranty means you can trust our expert contractors with your home remodeling project. Just enter your ZIP code at the top of the page to get a free, no-obligation estimate.

How Home Renovations Can Increase Your Homeowners Insurance

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Home remodeling involves a long list of tasks, from drawing up plans to choosing a home renovation contractor. One important task, however, is easy to overlook: Making sure that the insurance on your home is updated along with your home. If you didn’t include your insurance agent in the planning phase, talk to them as early in the process as possible.

Why a Home Insurance Review Matters

Your homeowners insurance is based on very specific information about your house. Making changes to how your home is used or altering its structure can cause changes in your policy’s coverage. Not only do you want to find out about the potential effects on liability issues, you also don’t want to miss out on lower premiums that may result from renovations. Ultimately, you want to verify that you have adequate coverage on your home and its contents.

Here are some common home renovations and how they may affect the insurance you have on your home:

Adding a home office: Installing some built-in shelving and a coat of paint to a room you’re now going to use as an office is unlikely to have any affect on your homeowners insurance. If, however, you’re starting a home-based business that requires special equipment and/or opens your home to customers in some way (for piano lessons, for instance), talk to your insurance carrier. Find out if there’s a limit on coverage for machinery or inventory, or ask if you need a new policy for protection against being sued by a customer.

Increasing your living space: This can be in the form of a new room addition or finishing out a space with a basement remodel or attic remodel. The main reason to update your insurance when adding living space is protection against catastrophic loss, and you’ll want to do this before your renovations begins. Let’s say that you’re in the midst of adding a new master suite to your house and a tornado destroys your half-finished project — if you’ve updated your insurance, it’s covered.

You should also find out about different types of insurance coverage for different home remodeling projects. A basement renovation may mean that new coverage is needed in case of water problems, for instance. And if zoning allows you to put tenants in a newly remodeled space, look into landlord policies.

Replacing your old roof:

Your roof is one of the largest aspects of your insurance coverage, because it often takes the brunt of damage from wind and precipitation. Many policies include depreciation based on your roof’s age, with coverage reducing over time. If you’re putting on a new roof, though, you may be eligible for discounts on your premiums from your insurance carrier, who will likely need documentation from your roofing contractor that states the new roof meets with the most strict codes.

Kitchen renovations: Since kitchen renovations can carry such a high price tag, you’ll want to make sure that your coverage is sufficient to replace your new kitchen in case of disaster. Your premiums may rise when you add coverage for the new value of your home, but not keeping your policy up to date could cost much more.

Adding a swimming pool: There’s no getting around the fact that adding a pool adds risk, but adequate coverage is an absolute must. Check with your insurer on the recommended amount of personal liability protection that will cover an injured person’s medical costs and legal expenses in the case of a lawsuit. Also ask what the carrier’s requirements are for fencing, slides, diving boards and other features associated with new swimming pools. Lastly, update your policy to cover any value the pool adds to your home.

Put your home renovation on a solid foundation with Contractor Connection.

Just as updated insurance means peace of mind, so does hiring your home remodeling contractor through Contractor Connection. Because our network of contractors has been verified to meet stringent requirements (including the tough standards of the insurance companies we work with), you’ll know that the contractor we match you with is fully qualified, licensed and insured. If you’re ready to hire a home remodeling contractor, Contractor Connection is ready to help. Simply enter your ZIP code at the top of the page to get started.

When to Hire a General Contractor

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Do You Really Need a General Contractor?

If you’re a do-it-yourself kind of person, you may not think that a residential general contractor can add any value to your projects. For some types of projects, that’s certainly true, but for others, a good contractor is indispensable.

 

How do you know when it’s time to hire a general contractor? The answer begins with an understanding of just what it is that contractors do.

 

The responsibilities of a general contractor

Residential contractors oversee and coordinate nearly every aspect of a home improvement or remodeling project. They hire the other professionals whose skills are needed, from plumbing and electrical subcontractors to painters and flooring installers. Whatever trade or professional services are required, the general contractor will schedule the subcontractors so that work is completed in the most efficient order.

 

Qualified contractors will also have proper licensing, worker’s compensation and insurance, which means they take on the liability for property damage or injuries that may occur. The less tangible — but still important — value they bring to your job includes expertise in project management, plus knowledge of the best construction methods, local building codes and the industry standards that apply to your particular project.

In addition, should something go wrong, the general contractor will be responsible for having it made right and for the costs to do so.

 

General contractors also have a role in the validity of certain product or material warranties. Roofs, windows and other features (especially those that are critical to structural integrity and long-term performance) may have warranties that will be voided if the work to install them isn’t performed by a qualified and certified contracting professional.

 

When should you hire a general contractor?

To determine when it’s time to call in a general contractor, ask yourself these questions:

    • How long will it take to complete the project? If you think a week or more is needed, consider hiring a general contractor. With his or her knowledge of the time any subcontractors will need, the contractor can keep things moving smoothly.

 

    • How will your local building codes affect your project? Building codes may dictate that certain projects be done by licensed professionals who must obtain a permit that non-professionals can’t get. If you decide to do such a project yourself, you could face substantial fines.

 

  • How many different subcontractors will be needed? You may be able to oversee the work of one window installer, but if your project (a kitchen remodel, for example) requires the services of several tradespeople, a general contractor can save you time, headaches and possibly even money.

When you need a general contractor, count on Contractor Connection.

Our network of expert general contractors are the best at what they do, and their work is backed by a five-year workmanship warranty. Not only have we vetted every one of our preferred contractors to ensure that they’re qualified to do your project — our network contractors also meet the stringent requirements of the insurance companies we work with across the nation.. Request your free, no-obligation estimate now. Just enter your ZIP code at the top of the page to get started!

What To Ask When Hiring A General Contractor

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If you’re thinking of hiring a general contractor, knowing which questions to ask can make the difference between a job that’s well done, on time and on budget, and one that’s an ongoing source of conflict and stress. To help ensure you’re making the best choice, ask each of your potential contractors these questions:

Is your license, insurance and worker’s compensation up to date?

A qualified contractor will be able to easily provide proof that he or she has these items and that they are fully in effect. You should contact the licensing authority to verify that the contractor’s license is in good standing and is not expired. If any contractor cannot provide a license copy or proof of general liability insurance, don’t hire that contractor. Assume that the lack of adherence to these standards is a sign that they’ll be likely to do inferior work and leave you with no recourse if something goes wrong.

Will you obtain all of the necessary permits?

Some people will choose to do a home improvement project themselves just to avoid the costs and hassle of obtaining permits. Unfortunately, some contractors also forego pulling permits because of the time and costs they can add. If a general contractor tells you that permits aren’t needed, you must confirm this with your local building code department. Depending upon where you live, your local building authority may have owner-pulled permits as well as contractor-pulled permits. Take it as a bad sign, however, if the general contractor automatically places the responsibility for pulling permits on you. Ultimately, you should clearly understand the reasons for recommendations that you pull permits.

Can you provide an itemized bid?

The total cost of your project is certainly a very important number, but you must know what that number is made of. By having an itemized bid, you will know how the elimination of an item will be credited to the bottom line. An itemized bid also gives you the opportunity to ask questions and become better informed about the costs of a particular subcontractor or material, and give you a chance to make adjustments. In addition, no matter how the bid is provided, ask if the numbers are simply estimates that may change once the project’s completed or if the total is a fixed bid.

Can you provide references?

Qualified contractors with a track record of satisfied clients will be more than happy to put you in touch with them. It’s best to get references for projects that are similar to yours, but all good references can be testimonies of the overall quality of a contractor’s work. If a general contractor can’t give you references that are verifiable, move on to the next one.

Which suppliers do you regularly use?

This may not seem like an obvious question to ask, but the answer can give you another method of assessing a general contractor’s reputation. Suppliers, from lumber yards to countertop shops, can tell you if a contractor promptly pays them for supplies and/or labor and is easy to work with. As with references, if a contractor is hesitant to give you this information, assume there’s a bad reason.

How will you protect my property?

Almost every home improvement or residential remodeling project will create some dust, dirt and mess in or around your home. Before any work or demolition starts, find out how the contractor plans to contain dust and minimize the tracking of dirt in your home. Ask if you’ll need to get furniture, decorations, drapes or other items out of the way of work crews to keep them safe.

How and when will we communicate?

Emails, texts, phone calls, in person — with so many ways to communicate, ask the general contractor how (and how often) you can expect to hear from him or her. Also find out how you can contact the contractor after hours in case of an emergency. For a long-term project, ask if weekly in-person meetings at the job site can be scheduled, which will help both of you stay on top of any issues as they arise.

How will you handle change requests?

The need for unexpected changes is common, so plan ahead for how they will be managed. Your contractor should be more than willing to document change orders in writing, including clear statements of the impact on costs and schedules. Have language included in your contract that spells out how change orders will be handled before any work begins.

What documents will you provide once the job is done?

General contractors should be willing to define the documents they’ll give you once the job is done in your initial contract. These may include a list of subcontractors, care instructions for materials such as countertops, copies of inspection reports, lien releases, and user’s manuals for new appliances or systems. Also ensure that you’ll be provided with all warranty documents on products or materials to be used. Note that some warranties require that a contractor be certified in order for them to be valid, such as with roofs or windows.

Can you guarantee your work?

A verbal assurance from a contractor that he’ll stand behind his work won’t be worth anything if you’re dissatisfied with the end result. Insist on a written warranty that clearly defines what is and is not covered, and for how long. A solid warranty should be for a duration of at least one year, and should protect you from inferior workmanship or defects.

Take the guesswork out of hiring a contractor with Contraction Connection.

With our rigorous vetting process, we’ve already verified that the contractor we match you with is licensed, insured and fully qualified. There’s no cost for using our matching service and, best of all, the work of our preferred contractors in your area is backed by our five-year workmanship warranty. Trust the contractors that insurance companies trust — get a free, no-obligation estimate on your project today. Just enter your ZIP code at the top of the page to get started.

Your General Contractor Is Done — Now What?

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So you’ve just used a general contractor for a home remodeling or room addition project and now the work is done. You have your furniture back in place, the dust swept away, and you’re enjoying your home’s new look or new space. The only thing left to do is make your final payment to the contractor. Before you get out your checkbook, however, take time for a final inspection and make sure you have all of the project-related documents that you may need in the future.

Here are a few things to be aware of that can help you properly wrap up your project:

Review your contract

Carefully go over your contract to confirm that all work was completed as it was described. If your original estimate was a fixed bid, review all of the general contractor’s invoices to you to ensure that the total equals the bid.

Verify that subcontractors have been paid

Some materials suppliers and subcontractors have the ability to place mechanic’s liens on your property if they haven’t been paid. Make sure everything that’s owed to them has been paid before you make your final payment to your general contractor.

Prepare a punch list

Any work that’s still to be done should be itemized on a punch list. In most cases, your contract is not considered fulfilled until items on the list are completed. These can range from highly visible and/or potentially costly items, such as scratches on your high-end countertops, to minor defects such as inoperable light switches or spots on the wall that painters may have missed. No matter how insignificant an unfinished task may seem, include it on your punch list. Also include any backordered items, and delay your final payment until all missing items have arrived and been properly installed.

Have your walk-through

The walk-through inspection should be scheduled once your general contractor has completed all of the items on your punch list. The walk-through should result in a final punch list that, once completed, earns the general contractor his or her final check.

Obtain project-related documents and samples

In addition to filing away your contract and any records of change orders, there are other pieces of paperwork to keep. If the contract itself doesn’t already include it, make sure you have a copy of any workmanship warranties. Keep copies of any lien releases, and plans or drawings. Also  retain a list of the names and contact information for subcontractors.

Also retain copies of all invoices you received and payments you made, as well as all manuals and warranty information on new appliances, systems or other products. When new materials have been installed, such as countertops, ask for any care instructions or paperwork that the material suppliers may have provided. Keep a record of appliance makes and models should you need them for a warranty claim or in case you need to order replacement parts.

You’ll also want to keep leftover samples of materials such as paint, flooring and countertops. These are handy should you need to buy additional quantities or you can take them along when shopping for furnishings or coordinating colors.

Make working with a general contractor simple with Contractor Connection.

With a five-year workmanship warranty and a network of pre-approved and thoroughly vetted general contractors, Contractor Connection gives you peace of mind. Our top-quality contractors meet the tough requirements of the insurance companies we work with, so you can trust them with your home improvement investment. Get started today — just enter your ZIP code at the top of the page and we’ll match you with a top-quality contracting professional within 24 hours.

How To Choose Flooring

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So many factors go into selecting the right type of flooring, from durability and budget to where it’s located in your home. Plus, it’s a choice you’ll likely have to live with for a long time. Before you hire a flooring contractor, assess your needs and get familiar with what’s available on today’s market.

Match Home Flooring to your Needs

How rooms are used vary greatly depending upon who is using them. A large family with children will probably need the most durable flooring they can find for their kitchen, while empty nesters can go with something less durable. Think about how much traffic each room will have, how often your floors might need to be cleaned, whether pets will be on them and other factors that will affect your flooring’s looks and longevity.

Another consideration is how long you plan to be in your home. If you’re thinking of selling in the near future, choosing neutral colors can help when it’s resale time.

Best Types of Flooring for Kitchens and Baths

Kitchen and bathroom floors must be able to withstand a lot of use and abuse, so the most durable and most easily cleaned materials are best. These include vinyl, laminates and tiling.

Pros and Cons of Tile Flooring:

Whether it’s porcelain or ceramic, tile is nonporous, so it’s an excellent choice for kitchen spills, bathtub splashes and high traffic. It’s easily cleaned and even comes in styles that mimic other materials, such as wood. It can chip, but since it comes in individual tiles, damaged sections can be replaced.

Stone tile flooring is another option. It’s tougher than ceramic or porcelain, but is more expensive. It comes in a range of materials, such as travertine, marble and granite, each of which has varying maintenance needs. Unlike ceramic or porcelain tile, stone can be porous as well.

One drawback to tile flooring is how slippery it can be, so it’s probably not the best selection if you or a family member is planning to age in place or has any mobility challenges.

In general, tile installation should be left to a professional flooring contractor. He or she will be able to advise you on whether the tile you have in mind is the best material for your application, and tell you whether your existing subfloor is ready to support your new tile floor.

Pros and Cons of Laminate Flooring:

If you like the appearance of real wood but don’t want the problems that wood can have in kitchens, laminate flooring can be an excellent choice. Laminate materials have come a very long way over the last couple of decades, improving in style selection and how they perform over time.

Installing laminate has also become a better process over the years, with squares, tiles and planks available that simply lock together without glue. You will need to install foam underlayment beneath a laminate floor, but that’s usually a simple task.

Pros and Cons of Vinyl Flooring:

Price is often the top reason to choose vinyl, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice good looks. Like laminate, vinyl has improved a great deal over the years.

Vinyl is durable and comes in several finishes that resist stains and don’t need to be polished. Choose from square tiles or six- or 12-foot-wide rolls. No special subfloor is needed, but the surface on which you’re installing vinyl does need to be level.

Flooring in the rest of the house

The choices for baths and kitchens can work anywhere in the house, but you have additional options in bedrooms, family rooms and common living areas. These include the ever-popular wood flooring and carpet.

Pros and Cons of Carpeting:

When it comes to warmth and comfort, carpet is tough to beat. It’s great on family movie night when everyone wants to stretch out on the floor and for creating a quiet, cozy atmosphere in a bedroom. It can add some degree of insulation and soundproofing, too.

If you’ve ever been to one of the large carpet warehouse-style stores, you know the choices can be overwhelming. Low pile or high, textured or smooth, wool or nylon — whichever combination of styles you choose, keep in mind that what you put beneath it is very important for durability, so avoid skimping on the pad.

Pros and Cons of Wood Flooring:

There are many reasons why wood flooring is a perennial favorite, with appearance at the top of the list. It can be one of the most beautiful surfaces in your home.

On the minus side, wood flooring can be very expensive. There’s more on the plus side, however, from a wide range of colors and finishes to surprising durability. It can be sanded down and refinished a number of times over its lifetime, is easy to keep clean and is relatively stain resistant.

Wood flooring is another material that should be professionally installed by a qualified flooring contractor who can also ensure that you have coordinating trim and molding that look as good as your new floor.

Find a qualified flooring contractor with Contractor Connection.

Save yourself the time and trouble of having to deal with multiple flooring contractors with our matching service. The experts in our network have already been vetted to ensure that they’re qualified to do your job right, and their work is backed by a five-year workmanship warranty. Be matched with the single contractor who’s best for you — simply enter your ZIP code at the top of the page to get started now.

How to Find (and Hire) the Right Flooring Contractor

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Hiring the right flooring installer is as important as choosing the right flooring material. The quality of flooring installation plays a great role in how well your flooring looks and how it performs over time. Selecting a highly qualified flooring contractor is the first step to ensuring long-term satisfaction with your new floors.

Here are a few things to consider when it’s time to hire a flooring contractor:

Match the material to the contractor.

While some flooring contractors may have enough subcontractors or employees on staff to be able to expertly install all types of flooring materials, most may not. Ask potential contractors which types of flooring they specialize in and ask if they have any certifications from manufacturers in the type of flooring you want. There also are trade organizations that offer accreditation, such as the National Wood Flooring Association. These relationships with manufacturers and trade organizations are a good sign that the contractor has the skills and training to do the job with a particular type of floor.

Insist on references.

How long a flooring contractor has been in business is important, but checking references is a better gauge of quality work. If a potential contractor hesitates to provide you with a list of his or her recent customers, move on to the next candidate — well-qualified contractors are glad to have you learn more about their satisfied customers and the work they’ve done.

Get multiple bids for your project.

Although it can be a hassle, take the time to get at least three estimates — in writing — for your flooring project. So that you can more easily compare them, make sure all bids include not only costs, but also start and completion schedules, detailed lists of all materials and all of the work that will be performed, details on how waste will be managed, who will be responsible for any equipment rentals, how and when payment is to be made, and how your property will be protected while the work is being done. As with references, if a potential contractor seems reluctant to provide information in writing that his or her standard contract doesn’t cover, think twice about working with that contractor.

Verify all credentials and coverage.

Unqualified flooring contractors can do more than leave you with a poorly installed floor — they also can put you or your property at risk. Vet potential contractors for the following:

  • Licensing: Not all municipalities and/or states require licensing specifically for flooring contractors, but check to see if yours does and if the contractor has the necessary licensing.
  • Liability insurance: Ask for the contractor’s proof of insurance, then verify with the insurance company that it’s current and has sufficient coverage for the work to be done. Some flooring installation equipment is very heavy, and can cause damage to your property or even injuries to the installers, so don’t skip this step while vetting contractors.
  • Bonding: A surety bond protects you if the contractor does an improper job or doesn’t meet his or her financial obligations, such as paying subcontractors. Bonds may also keep you from being left responsible for taking care of unpaid debts that the contractor incurred. The requirements for bonding vary according to your location, so you’ll want to check with the authority in your area.

Don’t have time to vet flooring contractors? We’ve done the work for you.

Contractor Connection makes finding an experienced and qualified flooring contractor simple. The flooring contractors in our network meet tough insurance industry standards and we’ve verified that they’re properly licensed and insured. Instead of calling multiple contractors, just enter your ZIP code at the top of the page and we’ll match you to just one contractor — the one who’s right for your flooring project.